ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - The Demetrious Johnson Charitable Foundation put lots of smiles on lots of faces, Saturday.

The St. Louis based group started by a former Mizzou and professional football player held its annual Christmas party at Union Station.

Volunteer Sonny Metcalfe says 1200 children were invited, “You never know, some kids this might be the only time they get a chance to get a toy.”

Jim Cox was right alongside Metcalfe, helping set up the party. He said in light of the schoolhouse tragedy in Connecticut and other violence, there’s no place he’d rather be, “For us, through the Foundation, to be able to give back to these beuatiful children is a humbling experience. Especially with what’s went on in the past two weeks, it really emphasizes that we need to take care of our kids and love them a little bit better.”

Special guest speakers at the party were St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay and Mizzou basketball coach Frank Haith.